Andy Murray has officially hung up his racquet, bringing an end to an illustrious 19-year career that has left an indelible mark on the world of tennis.
His final match took place at the Paris Olympics 2024, where he teamed up with fellow Brit Dan Evans in the doubles competition. The duo made a valiant run to the quarterfinals, but their journey was halted by the American pairing of Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
Murray’s retirement has prompted heartfelt tributes from some of his greatest rivals, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer—players with whom he formed the legendary ‘Big Four’ in men’s tennis. The camaraderie and respect shared among these four icons transcended their fierce on-court battles, and their tributes to Murray reflect the deep admiration they have for the Scottish champion.
Novak Djokovic’s Tribute
Novak Djokovic, who has faced Murray 36 times in his career, was one of the first to send his best wishes. Djokovic’s tribute was both a celebration of Murray’s achievements and a poignant farewell to a player he considers not just a rival, but a friend. The Serbian superstar took the time to list Murray’s numerous accomplishments, underscoring the significant impact the Brit has had on the sport.
“Andy, we were all hoping that this moment would never come, but here it is,” Djokovic began, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of Murray’s retirement. “I just want to say congratulations for an amazing career. Multiple Grand Slams, No. 1 in the world, two Olympic gold medals, Davis Cup—you have done it all. Amazing, really. You brought the Wimbledon title to Britain after 77 years, unfortunately against me in the finals. And all the best to you and your family. You deserve the best possible farewell. Bye bye, my friend.”
Djokovic’s words are a testament to the high regard in which Murray is held by his peers. The mention of Murray’s historic Wimbledon victory in 2013, where he ended Britain’s 77-year wait for a male singles champion by defeating Djokovic in the final, highlights one of the defining moments of Murray’s career. Djokovic’s tribute is not just a farewell, but a recognition of Murray’s resilience, talent, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Rafael Nadal’s Tribute
Rafael Nadal, known for his humility and sportsmanship, also expressed his sadness at having to say goodbye to Murray as a fellow competitor. Nadal’s tribute was deeply personal, reflecting the close bond the two shared on and off the court.
“Hello Andy,” Nadal began. “Well, I know it’s your last day on the professional tour. I am very sad to do this video, honestly, because you are one of the players that the locker room loves the most, for your character, for your charisma, and for the way that you have always been with me personally and with the rest of the players. I hope to keep in touch and see you around very often. All the best, my friend.”
Nadal’s words capture the essence of Murray’s personality—his character and charisma that endeared him to both his peers and fans. The mutual respect and friendship between Nadal and Murray have been evident throughout their careers, and Nadal’s tribute is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the impact Murray has had, not just as a competitor, but as a person.
Roger Federer’s Tribute
Roger Federer, who retired in 2022, also shared a moving tribute to Murray. Federer and Murray have shared many memorable moments on the court, and their rivalry has been characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Federer’s tribute highlighted Murray’s perseverance and the inspiration he provided to others.
“Hey, Andy. Many, many congratulations, my friend, on an incredible career,” Federer said. “You’ve been a great human being, doing it all with a massive family at the end, and with a hip and a body that clearly wasn’t giving you what you wanted anymore. But you have been a true inspiration to me and many of the players out there. And I am so happy you could do it as long as you did.”
Federer’s tribute touches on one of the most remarkable aspects of Murray’s career—his ability to push through adversity, particularly after undergoing multiple hip surgeries that threatened to end his career prematurely. Despite these challenges, Murray continued to compete at the highest level, and his determination has inspired countless players and fans around the world.
Andy Murray’s Final Matches and Legacy
Murray’s final appearance at the Paris Olympics was symbolic of his career—a testament to his fighting spirit and unwavering determination. Partnering with Dan Evans in the doubles competition, Murray demonstrated that even in the twilight of his career, he could still compete with the best. The British duo defeated the Japanese team of Taro Daniel and Kei Nishikori in the first round and then overcame the Belgian pair of Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen in the second round. Their journey, however, came to an end in the quarterfinals, where they were defeated by the American team of Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
This final match was reminiscent of Roger Federer’s last appearance on the professional circuit at the 2022 Laver Cup, where the Swiss maestro also bowed out after a doubles match, losing to the American pair of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe. Both Murray and Federer ended their illustrious careers not with a Grand Slam final, but with doubles matches that underscored their love for the sport and their camaraderie with fellow players.
Murray’s retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, but his legacy will endure. He leaves behind a career filled with remarkable achievements: three Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals, a Davis Cup victory, and a period as the world No. 1. Beyond the titles, Murray will be remembered for his tenacity, his sportsmanship, and his role in elevating British tennis to new heights.
The tributes from Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer serve as a reminder of the respect and admiration Murray has earned from his peers. As tennis moves into a new era, the contributions of the ‘Big Four’—Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, and Murray—will continue to be celebrated, and Murray’s place among them is secure.
While Murray’s professional journey has come to an end, his influence on the sport will be felt for years to come. Whether through his foundation, his advocacy for gender equality, or his continued involvement in tennis, Andy Murray’s legacy as one of the sport’s greats is assured. As the tennis world bids farewell to a true champion, it’s clear that Andy Murray’s impact will resonate far beyond the court.
